Special Inspections

Can someone explain to me what these special inspections are and why I’m required to have them? Our job was filed with Directive 14 so we are self certifying, do I have to use the architect of record (who has one of these inspection companies, his is called Catalpa) or can I use someone suggested by our contractor?

brooklyntoqueens

in Dept. of Buildings (DOB) 10 years and 7 months ago

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ellenlourie | 10 years and 7 months ago

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Contractor cannot hire and pay for special inspector. It is forbidden and it is conflict of interest. You have to find and pay for inspector yourself. You can find special inspector trough building department. Inspector must be approved by building department and be on their list. Directive 14 is just a way to speed up job and by pass plans examiner, but if inspector has an objection then you screwed. And directive 14 jobs get audited randomly.

arch007 | 10 years and 7 months ago

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They are inspections for critical elements of work and are required by the building code. For non-directive 14 jobs the special inspections are the same. I would not use an inspector who is in bed with the contractor, that does not protect you at all. Try to find a neutral party, you can choose anyone who is registered as an SIA.